Thursday, 13 September 2007

The under-gardeners are hens of habit, every morning they each lay an egg – in the same nest. For a reason known only to the hens, the other nest just isn't up to scratch. Surely it would be far better to relax in a nest of ones own, apparently not, nest-sharing is the preferred option.

By lunchtime the under-gardeners are happily rearranging the plants and merging the borders with the lawn edge, so I know egg laying has been cracked for the day. Time to collect the eggs under close supervision from Dawn; four beautiful, individual, perfect, freshly laid, free range eggs.

What a cute little chicken coop. Is it on wheels? I would love to have one just like it for after we get moved out to our acreage come next spring. I grew up with chickens and even had my own chickens when I first got married. How I loved collecting the eggs and feeling their warmth in my hands. Alas, I have not had chickens since we moved from our hometown to the city we live in now about 9 years ago.Love your blog and will be back. Cove visit me when you got the time. Take care!Salina

Joanna - maybe they are collectively putting together a clutch of eggs for one of them to hatch?

Thanks for dropping by Lucy - we get so much pleasure from the day to day routine of the under-gardeners.

Matron - they do look happy when they settle down together in the nest.

Holler - fresh eggs are so delicious, the other day I discovered how easy it is to make custard!

Meg - the under-gardeners accommodation is a luxury appartment!

Hi Salina - thank you for visiting. Yes the hut is on wheels so we can move it around the garden - it's well worth getting the best hen house you can, you won't regret it. I love the photos of bears on your nature blog.

Hi CS and Sara - as you might have guessed this hut wasn't a cheap option but it's so sturdy and easy to keep clean so I haven't regretted the investment. Best not to keep a tab on the unit cost of each egg!!

Kate - Dawn is a very confident and friendly hen - she happily perches on my hand, falconry style.

Nora b - fresh eggs from hens that have eaten only the best grain and chemical-free grass and herbs are gourmet food! When you realise each egg takes 24+ hours to be created and packaged so beautifully, they are even more special.

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